Did you know making homemade dog treats only takes 20 minutes? That’s right! You can make about 50 treats for your furry friend in less time than a sitcom. I’m excited to share seven simple 3 ingredient dog treats recipes that’ll make your pup drool.
These recipes are not only quick but also healthy. Each treat has 1.9g of carbs, 0.6g of protein, and 1g of fat. They’re also low in sodium and sugar, making them a better choice than store-bought treats. With a 5-star rating, these treats are loved by both dogs and their owners!
Ready to give your dog some homemade treats? Let’s explore these simple, tasty recipes that your dog will love!
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats Instead of Store-Bought
Making healthy dog snacks at home is a growing trend. It’s not just fun – it’s smart for your pet’s health and your wallet. Let’s see why homemade treats are becoming more popular.
Control Over Ingredients and Quality
When you make organic dog treats at home, you control what goes into them. Many store-bought treats have artificial additives and fillers. By picking your ingredients, you can avoid these harmful substances.
For example, a simple recipe with banana, peanut butter, and oats can make about 40 treats. Just remember to use natural peanut butter without added oils, sugars, or xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Cost-Effective Alternative
Store-bought dog treats can cost over $10 per pound. Homemade treats, on the other hand, cost only $2-3 per pound when using bulk ingredients. A batch of 24-36 homemade treats is much more affordable.
You can also adjust serving sizes based on what you have. Halve the recipe if you only have one banana, or double it for a larger batch.
Fresh and Preservative-Free Options
Homemade treats are fresher than commercial ones. You can store them at room temperature for up to a week, in the fridge for two weeks, or freeze them for longer freshness. This ensures your pup always gets the tastiest, most nutritious snacks.
Plus, making treats at home is a fun bonding experience. It often involves the whole family.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Dog Treats
Ready to make some simple dog biscuits or no-bake treats? You won’t need fancy tools. Your kitchen probably has everything you need.
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (bone-shaped ones are fun!)
- Airtight container for storage
For no-bake treats, a food processor helps but isn’t required. If making peanut butter treats, a strong spoon is needed. Mixing 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter can be tough!
When baking, use your oven at 350°F. Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Place treats 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Baking times vary, but most recipes take 14-16 minutes.
Accuracy is important in baking. Use measuring tools for the right mix of ingredients like whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and honey. Your pup will love the treats you make!
Safe and Unsafe Ingredients for Dogs
When making healthy dog snacks at home, it’s important to know which ingredients are safe. We’ll look at the best options for your furry friend and what to avoid.
Dog-Friendly Ingredients
Many wholesome ingredients can make delicious grain-free dog treats. Safe fruits include apples, bananas, and blueberries. Carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes are great vegetables.
Toxic Foods to Avoid
Some human foods are dangerous for dogs. Never use chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, or garlic in your homemade treats. These can cause serious health issues.
Also, avoid xylitol, a sweetener in some peanut butter brands that’s toxic to dogs.
Natural Sweeteners and Alternatives
If you want to add sweetness, choose natural alternatives. Mashed banana, honey, or maple syrup can be used in small amounts. They add sweetness without the risks of artificial sweeteners.
Remember, moderation is key when giving treats to your dog. Always check with your vet before introducing new ingredients. By choosing the right ingredients, you can make safe and tasty healthy dog snacks that your furry friend will love.
Recipe 1: Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal Treats
Let’s start with a classic combo that’ll make your pup’s tail wag – peanut butter and banana oatmeal treats! This recipe is great for pet parents who want to make tasty treats quickly.
Ingredient List
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 ripe banana
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F
- Mash the banana in a mixing bowl
- Add peanut butter and mix well
- Stir in the oats until combined
- Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness
- Cut into fun shapes or drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden
This recipe makes about 21 small treats, perfect for rewarding your furry friend. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and easy option for busy pet owners.
Storage Tips
Once cooled, store these treats in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week. For longer shelf life, freeze them and thaw as needed. Your pup will love these homemade goodies!
Recipe 2: Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Delights
Want to make healthy dog snacks at home? Try these pumpkin and peanut butter delights! They’re easy to make with just three main ingredients. Your dog will love these tasty treats.
To make these treats, you’ll need:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat or oat flour
Mix the ingredients until you get a smooth dough. Roll it out, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. They’ll be golden brown and delicious.
These treats are full of fiber from the pumpkin, helping with digestion. They also have a lot of protein, thanks to the peanut butter and eggs.
One batch makes about 40 small treats. Each treat has 30 calories, 4g carbs, 2g protein, and 1g fat. They’re also rich in vitamins A and C, and minerals like calcium and iron. You can try using mashed banana or sweet potato instead of pumpkin for a change.
Keep these treats in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for 2 weeks at room temperature or longer in the fridge. You can even freeze them for a cool treat on hot days!
Recipe 3: Sweet Potato and Oat Dog Biscuits
Looking for a nutritious treat for your furry friend? These sweet potato and oat dog biscuits are perfect. They’re made with wholesome ingredients, making them a healthier choice than store-bought treats.
Benefits of Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are great for dogs. They’re full of vitamins A, C, and B6. These vitamins help keep your dog’s immune system strong and skin healthy. Plus, they’re sweet, making them a hit with dogs.
Baking Instructions
To make these organic dog treats, you’ll need:
- 3/4 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium potato)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 cups instant oats
- 1 beaten egg
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
First, boil the sweet potato for 10-12 minutes until it’s tender. Then, mash it and let it cool. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until you get a dough. Roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until crispy.
These homemade dog treats can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 6 months. They’re not just tasty but also nutritious. Each treat has about 31 calories, 4.5g carbs, and 1g protein. Your pup will love these sweet potato and oat biscuits!
Recipe 4: Cheddar Cheese Bites
Looking for easy dog treat recipes? These Cheddar Cheese Bites are simple dog biscuits your pup will love! With just three ingredients, rolled oats, shredded cheddar cheese, and eggs, they’re quick to make and pack a flavorful punch.
Mix these ingredients to form a dough. Shape into small bites or use cookie cutters for fun designs. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden brown.
Prep time is 15 minutes, with a 15-minute cook time. In just half an hour, you’ll have tasty, wheat-free, high-protein treats!
These cheese bites are a hit, earning a 4.66-star rating from 20 votes. They’re versatile too – roll into balls or shape like bones for variety.
Storage tip: Keep treats fresh for a week at room temperature, 2 weeks refrigerated, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Remember, treats should be given in moderation. Limit to 1-2 per day for average-sized dogs, less for smaller pups. At about 30 calories each, they’re perfect as an occasional reward.
Cheddar is a great choice for dogs, being lower in lactose than other cheeses. Feel free to experiment with mozzarella or Swiss cheese, but avoid blue cheese as it can be toxic to dogs.
Recipe 5: Apple and Peanut Butter Crunchies
Looking for easy 3 ingredient dog treats? Try these Apple and Peanut Butter Crunchies! They’re simple to make and pack a nutritious punch for your furry friend. Apples offer vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats.
To whip up these healthy dog snacks, you’ll need:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
Mix the ingredients until you have a smooth dough. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into fun shapes. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until crispy. Your pup will love these crunchy treats!
Each small treat contains only 10 calories, making them perfect for training or daily rewards. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days, or keep them fresh in the fridge for up to 2 months.
Remember to always remove apple seeds and core before using apples in dog treats. With these Apple and Peanut Butter Crunchies, you’re giving your dog a tasty, homemade snack that’s both nutritious and delicious!
Recipe 6: Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Looking for easy dog treat recipes? These pumpkin oatmeal cookies are perfect homemade dog treats that your pup will love. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch of 90 treats in about 30 minutes.
To make these tasty cookies, you’ll need:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
Process the oats for about 2 minutes until they resemble coarse flour. Mix with the pumpkin puree and eggs. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 16-18 minutes, rotating halfway through for even cooking.
These homemade dog treats are not only delicious but also nutritious. Each cookie contains about 14 calories, 2g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. They’re perfect for dogs with wheat sensitivities and provide a good source of fiber.
Store your pumpkin oatmeal cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to a month. For a softer texture, ideal for older dogs or those with dental issues, reduce the baking time to 14-16 minutes.
Want to add some variety? Try these optional additions:
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter (reduce pumpkin by ¼ cup)
- 3-4 bacon strips
- ¼ tsp cinnamon for scent enhancement
With these easy dog treat recipes, you’ll save money and have control over the ingredients. Your furry friend will think it’s Thanksgiving every day!
Recipe 7: Banana Oat Bites
Looking for easy 3 ingredient dog treats that don’t require baking? These Banana Oat Bites are perfect! They’re simple to make and packed with nutrients your pup will love.
To whip up these no-bake dog treats, you’ll need:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
Mash the banana in a bowl. Mix in the oats and peanut butter until well combined. Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a tray. Refrigerate for about 2 hours to firm up.
These treats are not just tasty – they’re nutritious too! Bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. They support your dog’s heart health and immune system. The natural sweetness makes them irresistible to most dogs.
Each bite contains approximately 73 calories, 8g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 4g of fat. They’re also a good source of fiber, with 1g per serving.
Store these no-bake dog treats in the refrigerator and use within a week. Your furry friend will think they’ve hit the jackpot with these cool, refreshing bites!
Bonus Recipe: Apple Oatmeal Dog Treats
Surprise your furry friend with these delicious apple oatmeal dog treats! They’re made with wholesome ingredients for healthy snacks. You only need three simple ingredients to make them.
To make these treats, you’ll need:
- 5 ½ cups of rolled oats
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of plain, unsweetened applesauce
Mix the ingredients to form a dough, roll it out, and cut into shapes. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes. For crunchier treats, bake for 25-30 minutes. This recipe makes about 90 small treats, great for rewarding your pup all week.
These homemade dog treats are not only delicious but also nutritious. Each treat has about 30 calories, 6g of carbs, 1g of protein, and 1g of fiber. The apples in the applesauce add dietary fiber and are low in calories, making them perfect for overweight dogs.
Store your apple oatmeal dog treats in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. Your dog will love these wholesome, apple-pie-inspired snacks!
Proper Storage and Shelf Life
Homemade dog treats are a great way to spoil your pup. But, it’s key to store them right. Let’s look at the best ways to keep your treats fresh and tasty.
Room Temperature Storage
Dry, crunchy homemade dog treats can stay fresh for up to a week. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This works best for recipes without meat, fish, or cheese.
For treats with these ingredients, you need to refrigerate them.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Refrigeration helps your homemade dog treats last longer. Dry, baked treats can last up to two weeks in the fridge. Softer treats or those with meat, fish, or cheese should be refrigerated and eaten within five days.
Freezing Methods
Freezing is great for long-term storage of homemade dog treats. Most treats freeze well and can last up to 3 months. For even longer storage, try vacuum-sealing the treats before freezing – they can stay fresh for up to a year!
When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Remember, homemade dog treats don’t have preservatives. Always check for signs of spoilage before giving them to your pup. With proper storage, you can enjoy making easy dog treat recipes knowing they’ll stay fresh for your furry friend to enjoy.
Tips for Cutting and Shaping Dog Treats
Ready to become a pet chef? Let’s explore some tips for cutting and shaping those tasty 3-ingredient dog treats! First, grab a dog bone cookie cutter for that classic shape your pup will love. If you don’t have one, any small cookie cutter will work just fine.
When rolling out your dough, aim for about 1/4 inch thickness. This ensures your treats bake evenly and have that perfect crunch. For softer treats, go a bit thicker. Remember, these goodies aren’t meant to be crispy – they’ll firm up as they cool. A little chef’s secret: lightly flour your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.
No cookie cutter? No problem! Use a pizza cutter or knife to create simple squares or triangles. You can even roll the dough into small balls and flatten them with a fork for a rustic look. The best part? Your pup won’t care about the shape – they’ll just love the taste! Just keep the sizes consistent for even baking. Happy treating!